A portable power station allows the extension for all your outdoor activities and experiences by providing reliable power to recharge your smaller electronic items. Portable power stations allow you to recharge your small items such as cell phones and laptops while some power stations come with solar panel options which allow you to charge your larger appliances such as grills, hairdryers, air conditioners, etc. In this article, we will discuss the 5 best power stations for you to consider for your upcoming camping trips and outdoor excursions.
5 Best Portable Power Stations for Camping: Review
1. Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240
The Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240 provides lightweight, portable power while camping. At only 6 pounds, this charging station can be transported in a backpack with ease. The Jackery power station has a safe, stable output that allows you to power up to four devices simultaneously.
The Jackery Explorer 240 is rated the “Best Portable Power Station for Use in the Outdoors” by Digital Trends. Powered by a lithium-ion battery, the Jackery Explorer 240 can charge cell phones, lights, fans, mini coolers, and small appliances up to 400W.
A solar panel (sold separately) allows maximum charging capabilities and provides eco-friendly power options. The power station comes with multiple charging ports: AC outlet, 2 USB-A ports, and 1 DC carport.
Summary
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type | NA |
| Wattage | 400 surge watts |
| Runtime (at 50% load) | About 2.04 hours |
| Dimensions | 9.05 x 5.24 x 7.87 Inch |
| Weight | 6.6 lbs (3 kg) |
| Noise Level | Silent operation |
| Ignition System Type | Electronic |
| Voltage | 110V AC/13.3V DC |
| Battery Type | Lithium-ion |
| Output Wattage | 200 running watts (AC) |
| Battery Capacity | 16.8 Ah battery |
| Warranty | 2 Years |
Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240
Pros
- Lightweight
- Portable
- Charges multiple devices
- Great for powering laptops and charging phones
- Perfect for short camping trips
- Lithium-ion battery operated
- Built-in fan
- Economical price
- Input/Output screen display
Cons
- Automatically shuts off
- One AC outlet
- Takes 8 hours to fully charge
- Slow to update
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2. EF ECO FLOW Portable Power Station RIVER
The EF EcoFlow RIVER Portable Power Station is the perfect device to provide power to multiple devices. The EF ECO FLOW can provide power to up to 10 devices at once. This power station is great for regularly charging tools and appliances up to 600w.
Also, this portable power station includes an X-Boost mode, which when turned on, is compatible with charging home appliances, tools, and smaller devices up to a peak power of 1800w. It is quick-charging with the ability to charge from 0% to 80% in less than one hour. To obtain a full charge, this device only takes 1.6 hours while other power stations in the same price range can take up to 7 hours to receive a full charge.
When you are on the go, the EF ECO FLOW can plug into your car and fully charge in 3.5 hours. The EF EcoFlow River Portable Power Station’s sleek design weighs only 11 lbs and is only slightly larger than a toaster, making this device travel-friendly for all your on-the-go adventures.
SUMMARY
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 11.3 x 7.7 x 7.3 inch |
| Weight | 11 pounds |
| Capacity | 288Wh - 576Wh (With MAX extra battery) |
| Peak Wattage | 1200 watts |
| Rated Wattage | 600 watts |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Battery Type | Lithium-Ion battery |
| Battery Lifecycle | 500 cycles to 80%+ capacity |
| Certifications | UL Standard, CE, FCC, RoHS, RCM |
| Warranty | 12 Months |
EF ECO FLOW Portable Power Station RIVER
Pros
- Fast charging
- Powers multiple devices
- Lightweight
- Portable
- User-friendly interface
- Solar panel support capability
Cons
- Does not charge larger devices
- Cooling fan runs constantly
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3. AIMTOM 42000mAh 155Wh Power Station
The AIMTOM 42000mAh 155Wh Power Station is ideal for camping trips and short outdoor excursions. The AIMTOM 42000mAh is suitable for charging electronic devices such as cell phones, laptops, speakers, and CPAP machines.
The optional solar panel charging allows for you to never run out of power again (solar panels sold separately). This power station is super lightweight and durable, making it an excellent choice to bring on all your outdoor excursions and long car rides.
This power source can charge your phone up to 24 times or a slightly larger appliance for 3-4 hours.
The AIMTOM 42000mAh 55Wh power station comes with 3 ways to charge: wall outlet, car charger, or by solar panel (sold separately). To receive a full charge, it usually takes about 8 hours by a regular wall outlet.
Highly compact and lightweight
At around 3.5 pounds, this power station is extremely lightweight compared to similar models. This makes it the perfect power station to carry around in your backpack or to carry around with you during your outdoor adventures and long car rides.
Durable
This power station is built to last. It can easily be transported in a car and on the go without worry or hesitation if it is going to break.
Multiple charging capabilities
This power station comes with a variety of charging ports: AC outlets, DC ports, USB ports, 12V Car Port or Type-C port.
Great for charging:
- Phones
- Laptops
- Cameras and equipment
- CPAP machines
- Running Lights
- Small appliances under 100 watts
No noise
This AIMTOM power station is quiet and provides minimal fan noise.
Emergency features
The power station comes with great emergency features. If you are camping and need to see in the dark, the power station comes with a bright LED flashlight. It also comes with helpful features such as a battery level indicator so you will never have to worry about how much longer you have to recharge your power station.
Automatic shut off
In the case that you charge a device that is over the voltage limit, the AIMTOM power station will shut off. This saves your power station from overheating.
SUMMARY
AIMTOM 42000mAh 155Wh Power Station
Pros
- Highly compact
- Lightweight
- Quiet
- LED Flashlight
- Built-in SOS mode for emergencies
Cons
- Long charging time (8-10 hours)
- Battery life drops over time
- Automated fan
- Larger devices such as humidifiers quickly drain the battery
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4. BALDR Portable Power Station 330W
The BALDR Portable Power Station 330W has amazing charging capabilities. Although it takes around 7 hours to receive a full charge, this power station will keep its full charge for a longer time. The BALDR power station allows for solar panel recharging capabilities (sold separately).
Reliable
The BALDR 330W comes with a safety feature that improves battery life, protects against short circuit breaks, overvoltage, and overheating. The portable power station comes with a 2-year warranty and a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Multiple charging capabilities
This power station comes with multiple charging ports. With 4 USB ports, 1 USB-C port, and a wireless charger featured on the top to charge your phone, you won’t run out of charging possibilities.
Emergency light
This BALDR power station illuminates dark corners and nighttime events with a 2 watt LED lantern light.
Summary
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 11.6 x 8.27 x 7.68 inch |
| Weight | 7.1 Pounds |
| Battery Type | Lithium-ion |
| Voltage | 110 volts |
| Wattage | 330 Watts |
| Capacity | 297 Wh |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
BALDR Portable Power Station 330W
Pros
- Multiple charging ports
- Wireless charger
- LED light
- Comfort rubber grip
Cons
- Voltage reduces overtime
- Overheats when high voltage is plugged in
- Fan runs frequently
- Not for use with heat or an inductive motor
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5. FlashFish Portable Power Station 200W
The FlashFish Portable Power Station 200W is designed for all your outdoor power needs. This portable power station is great for charging cell phones, laptops, and small appliances. Solar panels allow you to charge larger devices such as dehumidifiers, car batteries, and CPAPs. The FlashFish Portable 200W Power Station allows 3 ways to recharge: Solar panels, cigarette lighter adapter, and AC adapter (these are not included). The FlashFish 200W comes with:
- 1 AC Adapter
- 1 Cigarette Lighter Adapter
- 1 Car Charger
- 1 USB LED Light
- 1 User Manual
Portable and compact
The FlashFish 200W is only 4.5 pounds, making it extremely lightweight and compact for all your outdoor travels.
Great for:
- Camping
- RV/Van Trips
- Outdoor excursions
User-friendly interface
The FlashFish 200W comes with a bright LCD screen that indicates battery life and adapter information.
Summary
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 8.3 x 4.7 x 7.1 inch |
| Weight | 4.5 Pounds |
| Battery Type | Lithium-ion |
| Voltage | 110 volts |
| Wattage | 200 Watts |
| Capacity | 150 Wh |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
FlashFish Portable Power Station 200W
Pros
- Long battery life
- Soft handle
- Compact
- Portable
- Bright LCD screen
Cons
- Charging takes a long time
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What is a Portable Power Station?
A portable power station will allow you to extend your outdoor activities by charging your necessary devices. A power station is similar to having an oversized portable charger for you to use while away from home.
They are usually quite portable and can range anywhere from 3 to 30 pounds. A major plus is that these units can charge multiple devices at one time while you are traveling.
Advantages of a portable power station:
- A power station does not emit fumes into the environment, making it ecologically friendly. Since portable power stations do not emit CO, portable power stations are safe to use indoors.
- Most portable power stations contain quiet fans that won’t give off a loud noise while you try to sleep.
- A portable power station can charge multiple devices simultaneously so you never have to worry about running low on power.
Portable Power Station Buying Guide
What Should You Look For in a Portable Power Station?
Portability
Since you will be traveling with your power station, it is important to choose one that is lightweight, compact, and durable. That way you can take it with you in a backpack, in the car, or by hand.
Noise Level
Power stations should have a quiet fan that does not give off loud noises while you try to sleep.
Long battery life
Your power station should have long battery life and allow for a multitude of charges before it needs to be recharged from a wall outlet, car charger, or solar panels. Each portable power station described in this article includes a rechargeable lithium-ion battery.
A typical power station battery can last anywhere from 3 to 13 hours on a full charge before needing to be recharged. A battery’s lifespan is usually between 1000-2000 hours on average.
Durability
Since you will be using your power station in outdoor environments and traveling with the device, you will want to make sure it can withstand transportation without breaking or becoming damaged.
How to Choose the Right One for You?
When you are deciding on a power station, there are a few questions you need to consider:
- Who will be using the device? Will you need multiple ports for powering devices?
Many power stations come with multiple outlet ports for a variety of devices. Make sure you choose a power station that allows you to charge the types of devices you will be using.
- How many charges does the power station provide?
If you will be away from home for an extended amount of time, make sure you research how many charges your power station will allow before you need to recharge the unit.
- Is the power station portable? What are the size and weight?
Since you will be on the go, you want to make sure the power station is lightweight and compact enough for you to easily transport it.
- Is the power station durable?
Always choose a power station that can withstand the environment that you will be in.
- How is the device powered?
Power stations can have different ways to charge. Most are from wall outlets, car adapters, or even solar panels.
Safety tips
- Do not expose the unit to high heat or direct sunlight.
- Keep the unit away from children and pets.
- Do not get the unit wet.
- Do not use the unit if your hands are wet.
- Always pay attention to the highest voltage amount that the unit allows. Do not try to put a higher voltage item into the unit. This may cause the unit to stop working.
- Always read the safety instructions and user manual in order to operate your unit properly.
- If your unit starts malfunctioning (overheating, rusting, smelling) contact the manufacturer immediately.
FAQs
When camping, you need to consider how long you’ll be gone and how many devices you will want to charge. If you will be charging multiple devices, consider purchasing a power station with more charging ports and higher voltage capabilities.
When you are on a camping trip, it is important to bring along a power source that is both portable, dependable, and, of course, has a long battery life.
Jackery (Best Overall)
EcoFlow (Best Upgrade)
AIMTOM (Most Compact)
BALDR (Best Electric)
FlashFish (Best Build Quality)
Final Word
Shopping around for the perfect power station for your outdoor excursions can become tedious when you don’t know where to start. Before you take a trip to the great outdoors, make a list of a few simple key factors: the number of people who will be using the power station, the types of devices you need to charge, and how long you’ll be away from home. These factors will help you decide what features you need and determine the type of power station best for your next outdoor adventure.
